1996 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,491 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (175 HP) has 101 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Nissan Altima (245 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2008 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Escort | Altima |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
